More Train Strikes To Hit Eastbourne

The RMT Union has today (17 March) confirmed that guards and drivers on Southern Rail are to take industrial action for 24 hours on Tuesday 4 April, in the on-going disputes over the safety impact of the extension of Driver Only Operation and the removal of guards from services.

The announcement comes as RMT continues to press the company for a firm date for talks over the future role of the guard. The union has said that it would reconsider its action to allow for those talks to take place.

Mick Cash, RMT General Secretary, said, “RMT members on Southern Rail have been fighting for safety and access for nearly a year now and it is disgraceful that we have continued to be carved out of the talks process. That is a kick in the teeth for our members. This dispute needs to be pushed forwards and RMT would be prepared to reconsider our action if we get a commitment to a firm date for genuine and meaningful talks.

“All parties should be at the negotiating table and RMT’s continued exclusion means we have no option but to press ahead with further industrial action.”

“It is now down to Southern/GTR, and serious talks that address our issues.”

Responding to the strike announcement, a Southern spokesperson said, "We've not received any correspondence from the RMT on this matter. When we do, we'll review it and respond.

"In the meantime, they have announced a new strike date and we'll plan accordingly if it goes ahead. We've been able to run over 90% of our trains for our passengers on recent RMT strike days and we will plan to run a comprehensive service again."

the contract holders in the Government, to face up to their responsibilities and engage in genuine and